Golden Dew

Deshampsia cespitosa 'Goldtau', also known as Gold Dew Tufted Hair Grass, is a beautiful ornamental grass with golden-hued inflorescences that add elegance to gardens.

To ensure the health and beauty of this plant throughout the year, it's important to provide seasonal care tailored to its specific needs. This guide explains how to care for Deschampsia 'Goldtau' throughout the seasons

Spring

Pruning and Maintenance

In early spring, examine your Deschampsia for any dead or damaged foliage from the previous yearand gently prune this away using clean, sharp secateurs. If this wasn’t done in winter, cut the plant back to around 3–4 inches to prepare it for the growing season.

Feed

Encourage new growth by applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct dosage.

Watering

Gradually increase watering as the weather warms up. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Summer

Mulching

Apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature and suppress weeds. This is especially important in hot and dry summer conditions.

Watering

In the warmer months, Deschampsia requires regular watering. Ensure the soil remains consistently damp but not waterlogged. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering.

Autumn

Pruning and Maintenance

As the growing season comes to an end, trim away any remaining dead or damaged foliage to tidy up the plant.

Protection from frost

Deschampsia is generally frost-hardy, but providing some protection, especially for potted plants, can help during severe frosts.

Winter

Pruning and Maintenance

Consider pruning back your grass to 3-4inchs from the ground, try to shape into a low dome to encourage even growth throughout the next growing season.

Pest and disease prevention

Pests and diseases are less common in winter, but it's essential to monitor your Deschampsia for any signs of issues and address them promptly.

Plant SOS

Wilting or floppy foliage – A sign of dry soil or heat stress. Water regularly and keep soil moist.

Brown leaf tips – A sign of drought stress or hot winds. Increase watering and provide some shelter.

Yellowing foliage – A sign of poor drainage or nutrient deficiency. Improve drainage and feed lightly.

Weak or sparse growth – A sign of low light or poor soil. Move to sun or light shade and enrich soil.

Chewed leaf edges – A sign of slugs or snails. Use Slug & Snail Repellent or Slug & Snail Control.